Yemen: Yemeni government naval forces have successfully intercepted a smuggling boat off the southern coast, seizing materials intended for the manufacture of drones, explosives, and missiles. The operation took place on Sunday, as confirmed by a security official speaking on the condition of anonymity.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the interception occurred near the southern Lahj province. The boat was reportedly headed towards Houthi-controlled regions and was carrying a significant quantity of sensitive military components. These components, which included batteries and drone operating system parts, were cleverly camouflaged within plumbing materials to avoid detection.

The official noted that despite limited resources, pro-government naval units managed to track and halt the smuggling vessel after receiving crucial intelligence regarding its activities. This operation is believed to be part of a broader network aimed at supplying military components to the Houthis.

Three individuals were taken into custody following the seizure, and the confiscated materials have been sent to security units in Aden, a southern port city, for further examination. Yemeni officials have long accused the Houthis of acquiring smuggled weapons and drone parts through maritime routes along the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, although the Houthis have yet to respond to these latest allegations.